Sri Lanka Bans Junk Food in Schools as Government Moves to Curb Rising Childhood Obesity, Disease Risks
Sri Lanka has begun enforcing a nationwide ban on junk food in schools as part of a new effort to improve children’s health and reduce rising cases of obesity and related diseases.
The policy, which took effect on Tuesday, prohibits schools from serving or selling foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. This includes popular items such as burgers, hot dogs, pizzas, doughnuts, ice cream, biscuits, flavoured milk, energy drinks, pastries, and deep-fried snacks. Even commonly used condiments like tomato sauce are included in the restriction.
The education ministry explained that the decision was necessary due to growing concerns about poor eating habits among schoolchildren. Officials say unhealthy diets are contributing to increasing rates of diabetes, heart disease, and other long-term health conditions among young people.
Although Sri Lanka continues to face poverty and food insecurity in parts of the country, authorities say a new challenge is emerging, rising overweight and obesity rates among children. Government data from 2024 showed that about 12 percent of students aged 13 to 17 were overweight, while 3 percent were classified as obese.
Public health inspectors have already begun implementing the guidelines across schools, ensuring compliance with the new nutrition standards. The education ministry noted that while there is limited clinical data on childhood diseases, available observations point to a steady increase in non-communicable health conditions linked to diet.
Officials believe the ban will encourage healthier eating habits, promote better concentration in class, and reduce long-term health risks. They added that schools should now focus on providing balanced meals that support children’s growth and learning.
The move has been described as part of a broader national effort to reshape school environments into healthier spaces for the country’s four million students.
